Academic Exploration at Wellington

Ms Keer Xu

University Counsellor

To this end, we have invited eight distinguished professors from the University of Birmingham (UK), the University of Waterloo (Canada), and the University of the Arts London (UK) to embark on an in-depth academic exploration journey. The core of this event is the "subject-specific lecture series," aimed at helping pupils gain a deeper understanding of the cutting-edge dynamics and academic requirements of various disciplines. From their respective fields of expertise, the eight professors have guided pupils through a cognitive leap from "understanding majors" to "building careers."

Interdisciplinary Laboratory: When Public Health Meets Behavioural Economics

Six professors from the University of Birmingham, spanning fields such as biomedical science, psychology, engineering, environmental science, history and social sciences, and international development, have showcased the charm of interdisciplinary research. For instance, a thought-provoking question was posed: "In the field of health communication, how can social marketing become a catalyst for behavioural change?" This interdisciplinary perspective has opened up a brand-new dimension of thinking for pupils.

Mathematics Arena: An Immersive Experience of Intellectual Challenge

The "Extreme Challenge Trilogy" presented by the mathematics professor Dr Paul McGrath from the University of Waterloo has transformed the cool precision of theoretical mathematics into an intellectual celebration. Guiding pupils from basic theory to advanced applications, these challenges not only test pupils' logical thinking abilities but also spark their interest in theoretical mathematics.

Art Innovation Space Station: From Artistic Hobby to Professional Choice

The art lecture from the University of the Arts London has opened the door to creative design for pupils, helping them understand the close connection between art and culture, history, and social context. The lecture provides detailed introductions to different art courses (such as graphic design, fashion design, film production, and fine arts), assisting pupils in identifying directions that align with their interests.

Empowering the Future: The Cognitive Awakening Behind a 93.8% Satisfaction Rate

According to post-event survey feedback, pupils have rated the lecture activities very highly, with a satisfaction rate of 93.8%. Many pupils have indicated that these lectures have had a positive, even decisive, impact on their higher education and career choices. The lectures have not only broadened pupils' academic horizons but also ignited their interest in exploring new fields. Pupils particularly noted that the professors' expertise and the depth of the lecture content were highly beneficial. The sharing of career development paths and cutting-edge disciplinary dynamics has led them to redefine their academic interest profiles.

As organisers of the event, Wellington's teachers have praised the outcomes. They believe that subject-specific lectures have not only broadened pupils' academic horizons but also provided valuable references for their future academic planning. Mr McAndrew, Head of Humanities, said, "The professors' lectures were not only rich in content but also full of inspiration. Such events are fantastic and should be held every semester." A teacher from the university counselling team added, "This event allowed pupils to interact face-to-face with professors from top universities, to understand the research directions and academic requirements of different disciplines, and has highly inspired pupils' major choices."

Pupils who participated in the event have shared their experiences with us. Alexander from Year 12 mentioned, "In the professor's eyes, I saw his passion for Roman history." Cynthia from Year 11 said, "The professor's analysis of gender and self-awareness has shown me the fascinating side of sociology." Tony from Year 12 added, "Mathematical thinking is crucial for simplifying problems."

This educational experiment, based on the methodology of "problem orientation, interdisciplinary dialogue, and future rehearsal," has opened a door for pupils to the academic world. Whether in biomedical science, psychology, mathematics, or art, the professors' sharing has filled pupils with anticipation for their future academic paths. The support and guidance from Wellington's teachers have provided a solid foundation for pupils' academic planning. True educational empowerment begins with the brave exploration of unknown fields and is achieved through the continuous breaking of cognitive boundaries.